Nasal cavity dilator

ABSTRACT

An adjustable nasal dilation device including a first deformable body having one or more ribs able to engage opposing internal sides of a nasal cavity wall when in position and an adjustment member which expands the first deformable body to enlarge the nasal cavity.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a device, which can be easilyadjustable for insertion in a body cavity such as the nasal cavity of aperson to dilate the cavity into variable states of dilation and/or tomaintain the cavity in a predetermined dilated state.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Snoring and general breathing dysfunctions are common ailmentsthat affect a significant proportion of the world's population. Peoplewho are disposed to such conditions can be subject to feelings ofgeneral tiredness, shortness of breath, fatigue, sleep deprivation,snoring, and even sleep apnoea, which can increase the risks of cardiacarrest.

[0003] Attempts have been made to address the above conditions. Forinstance one option available to sufferers involves a surgicalprocedure. Apart from requiring a sufferer to endure invasive surgeryand the relatively high costs associated therewith, it is documentedthat surgical procedures are only temporarily successful, sufferersrequiring repeated surgery to obtain ongoing relief.

[0004] Other methods of addressing snoring, related breathingdifficulties arid the like have included nasal sprays. The problem withspray formulations, however, is that they often contain steroidal orvasoconstrictors active agents that cause side effects and can lead to achronic addiction problem or withdrawal difficulties.

[0005] Alternatives to surgical procedures and sprays have included arange of contraptions that can be worn like a mask on the face of asufferer to help maintain airways in an open condition. These types ofdevices involve complex designs that are very conspicuous on a wearer.Other types of devices that are worn externally include a resilientplaster applied over the bridge of the nose to externally expand thenostrils. A problem associated with this type of approach is that theplaster is not aesthetically pleasing, and is limited by both theinherent resiliency of the plaster and its ability to exert a sufficientoutward force to expand and maintain a nostril cavity in an opencondition. In addition the plaster requires painful removal that couldresult in the tearing of skin.

[0006] Other devices are disclosed in patent documents such as a devicedescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,409 that can be inserted within thenasal cavity. This device has a rigid structure and requiresmanufacturers to make different sized devices to cater for a range ofcavity sizes. Also problems frequently arise in a nasal application whena wearer exhibits a deviated septum. A deviated septum is a curvature inthe septum, the cartilage and bone that separates the nostrils. A curvedseptum often renders one nasal cavity a different shape and size to itsneighbour and inhibits airflow through one side of the nose and canresult in airflow blockage through one nostril. Prior art devices, ofthe type disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,409 that are insertable withinthe nasal cavity, suffer the drawback that if one dilator of asymmetrical pair, to be inserted, is of a sufficiently small size toenter one nostril then the remaining dilator of the pair is too small tobe effective in dilating the other nostril. Conversely, if one device ofa symmetrical pair is sufficiently large to effectively dilate onenostril, its pair is often too large to be inserted in the othernostril.

[0007] A similar device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,710,799, whichdescribes a pair of open cages joined together by a flexible chain ofinter-locked links, the cages being slightly larger than the nostrilsbut insertable therein so that the nose holds the cages in place. Thisdevice confers a deal of discomfort for a wearer upon insertion becausethe device is generally larger than the corresponding orifice in whichit is to inserted. Other devices are available that include a resilientplastic strip with widened ends. This type of device is usually bentprior to insertion to conform to a U-shape with the wide ends beinginserted into the nostrils. The extent of dilation of the nostril cavitydepends on the resiliency of the plastic to return to its normalconfiguration. These type of dilators are very uncomfortable for awearer and the force generated by the resilient plastic often causesirritation to the inside lining of the nose not to mention that thearticle is conspicuous.

[0008] It should be understood that any reference to prior art does notconstitute an admission of common general knowledge.

[0009] Hence it is an object of the present invention to provide adevice, which addresses at least one of the difficulties of the priorart.

[0010] A preferred object of the invention is to provide a device whichis adjustable by a wearer to fit most nasal cavities as well as eachnasal cavity independently and to urge dilation of the cavity to enablepassage of air/fluid through the cavity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In accordance with the invention there is provided a controllablyadjustable nasal cavity dilation device for controllably urging thecavity towards a dilated condition, the device including a body having awall structure which is capable of expansion upon exertion of an appliedforce to the body; the body being shaped to enable insertion of thedevice within the cavity in a first condition to rest against internalwalls of the nasal cavity wherein when the body is acted upon by anapplied force the wall structure extends laterally of the body in acontrolled manner within the cavity to exert a positive pressure againstthe internal walls thereby to dilate the cavity and control the passageof air there through.

[0012] The present invention differs from prior art devices in that theinstant device can be inserted within a nasal cavity of a user in anon-compressed condition. Hence upon insertion of the device a wearerexperiences substantially no discomfiture. Once the device is insertedwithin a nasal cavity the device can be adjusted in situ, in acontrolled manner by the wearer, to tailor a desirable degree ofexpansion against nasal cavity walls and hence influence the flow of airand pressure applied to the walls to suit the users requirements. Unlikeany prior art device the instant device enables expansion of separatenasal cavities independently particularly where a pair of nasal cavitiesis asymmetrical due to a deviated septum.

[0013] In accordance with the invention there is provided a nasal cavitydilation device for urging the cavity towards an open condition, thedevice having:

[0014] a flexible wall structure with variable geometry which isinsertable within the cavity so as to rest within the nasal cavity; and

[0015] an expansion means engaging with the flexible wall structurewherein the geometry of the device is adjustable by application of aforce on the expansion means to cause the flexible wall structure toproceed from a first substantially undilated geometry to adopt a seconddilated geometry; and

[0016] a holding means for maintaining the expansion means and theflexible wall structure in a selected second dilated geometry

[0017] wherein in the second dilating geometry the device is sized andpositionable to exert a positive pressure against the internal walls ofthe cavity thereby opening the cavity to enable passage of air and/orfluid therethrough and to retain the device in its desired positionwithin the nostril.

[0018] The device can be adjusted by applying a force to the expansionmeans to provide a choice of one of a plurality of second dilatedgeometries such that the user can select an appropriate size relative tothe user's nasal cavity and the holding means can maintain the selectedsize. Hence the device can be adjusted in situ by a wearer to suit thewearers' specific air flow requirements. The nasal cavity dilationdevice can include two separate wall structures linked together to forma pair, expansion means and holding means to enable independentadjustment of each wall structure in a pair to suit respective nasalcavities since a wearer may want to dilate one of the pair. A linkmember can join the two structures together for ease of use and as asafety measure to avoid over insertion. The link means also acts as asafety mechanism to prevent accidental inhalation. In a furthervariation the link means can also act as the expansion means.

[0019] The holding means can be a setting means where a material pieceis able to hold a selected position by its nature or after being treatedsuch as heat treated in that position. This can include metallic means,which have a degree of flexibility but retain the position after beingflexed. Another means is heat settable plastics such that afterselection of the correct size the item is set by insertion in hot wateror otherwise.

[0020] The holding means in another form is lockable to maintain theflexible wall structure in one of a number of second geometries. Anadvantage of the holding means is that the geometry of the device can bemaintained in an adjusted configuration to enable improved airflow thatsuits a wearers individual requirements. Hence the amount ofadjustability of the device can be controlled by the wearer. The holdingmeans in one such lockable form can be irreversible such as known onsecurity ties or be unlockable.

[0021] A substantial benefit in the reversible locking of the holdingmeans is its use in changing the dimensions of the structure when theuser has a different condition and the nasal cavity size has changed orwhere a user over-expands the device prior to insertion; the holdingmeans allows for further fine adjustment. Such a condition can occur dueto inflamed sinuses or because of colds, influenza and other noseaffecting ailments or due to physical damage such as sunburnt noses,broken or damaged noses. Although it also allows use by different usersthis is an unlikely event for hygiene reasons.

[0022] The invention also provides an adjustable nasal cavity dilationdevice for urging the cavity towards an open condition including:

[0023] a body having a flexible wall structure, the wall structureincluding a plurality of spaced longitudinal ribs extending between atop frame and a bottom frame with the wall structure being expandableover a wide range of geometries and being insertable within the cavityto rest against nasal cavity walls;

[0024] an expansion means comprising a connecting link between the topframe and the bottom frame to engage with the flexible wall structure,the link being used to force the top frame towards the bottom framecausing a change in geometry of the elongated ribs, by application of aforce on the expansion means, from a first substantially undilatedgeometry to a second dilated geometry; and

[0025] a holding means including a locking means for receiving a part ofthe link to maintain the relative positions of the top frame and thebottom frame and thereby to maintain the flexible wall structure in asecond dilated geometry

[0026] wherein the device is able to be controllably expanded by theexpansion means to act against the cavity walls and thus enable passageof air and/or fluid therethrough and to retain the device in its desiredposition within the nostril.

[0027] Another advantage of the device according to the presentinvention is that in a first undilated geometry, the device can beeasily inserted within any sized cavity such as a nostril. The devicecan be expanded geometrically in situ or prior to insertion in acontrolled manner by a wearer by applying an external force to theexpansion means. The expansion means subsequently compresses one end ofthe frame towards the other. In a geometrically dilated condition, thedevice is able to both engage the internal walls of a nasal cavity andurge the internal walls outwards to improve the nasal passages forreceiving improved airflow.

[0028] The invention also provides a device for dilating a nasal cavity,the device having:

[0029] an open structure to enable fluid/air to pass therethrough, thestructure including a first and opposite ends

[0030] a resilient flexible wall interconnecting the first and oppositeends of the structure,

[0031] a holding means engaging at least one end of the open structure,the holding means adapted to retain one end of the structure in aposition relative to its opposite end on application of a force thereto;

[0032] wherein the device is insertable within the cavity in a firstinsertable configuration to rest initially within internal walls of thenasal cavity and when a force is applied to the holding means one of theends of the structure is displaced towards the opposite end and theresilient wall progressively flexes outwardly from the initialinsertable configuration to adopt a dilated configuration to exert apositive pressure against internal walls of the cavity.

[0033] The first and opposite ends of the device can be interconnectedby a wall which is made up of a series of resilient ribs. The pressureexerted by the wall of the device on the walls of the cavity can be bothcontrolled and maintained by locking the ends of the device in a desiredposition.

[0034] The device further includes a locking system that enables theends of the device to be releasably lockable in a desired state ofcompression. The locking system consists of mating or interlockingcomponents on the expansion means and on one of the ends of the deviceto releasably lock the expansion means.

[0035] The first and opposite ends of the device are substantiallycircular in cross-section having circular openings therein. One of thecircular ends has a smaller circumferential opening than its oppositeend. The first and/or second end(s) can be angled to suit the anglebetween the septum and adjacent wall of a nostril cavity. The advantageof having an angled end enables the device to be better hidden from anobservers view.

[0036] The series of ribs forming the wall of the device each describean arcuate pathway from the enlarged end to the smaller end. Thisaccentuates the disposition of the walls/ribs to extend outwardly whenthe respective ends of the body of the device are subjected to acompressive force exerted by the expansion means.

[0037] The expansion means can include a draw-pull element that passesthrough both circumferential open ends of the device and exerts acompressive force on one end of the body to urge movement of the oneend, in the direction of force, towards its opposite end.

[0038] The locking means consists of a length of a moulded plasticdraw-pull which extends through the openings in the ends, the draw pullbeing restricted from complete passage therethrough by a protuberance atone end of the draw pull which is larger than the opening in one end ofthe device to restrict the passage of the draw pull through the openingin one the end.

[0039] The locking system can include a locking ring mounted on theenlarged end of the device, the ring having a first large opening toallow passage of the expansion means and a second small opening toenable locking of the expansion means.

[0040] The locking means can alternatively include a series of notchesor protuberances on the draw pull element, the protuberances being ableto pass through the large opening during compression of the body, thedraw pull thereafter being prevented from withdrawal by resting one ofthe series of protuberances below the second smaller opening. In analternative embodiment the locking means can include a draw-pull havinga series of teeth and a receiving cylindrical member with internalmating teeth members for releasably engaging teeth on the draw pull.

[0041] The device can house a means for delivery of a medicated vapour.The advantage of the delivery of medicated vapour by the present deviceis that any substance such as ‘Vapor Rub’ can be held away from contactwith the skin while allowing inhalation of medicated vapour. Hence thesubstance is able to function purely as a vapour for inhalation whilesubstantially eliminating irritation that can otherwise be caused bydirect contact with the skin. In one instance a medicated deliverysystem can be mounted on the body of the device. The device can furtherinclude a filter. The filter can reduce the amount of airborne irritantsthat can otherwise infiltrate the bronchial system and cause an allergicreaction. While the filter may cause some restriction in the flow ofair, any restriction is offset by the expansion of a nostril as a resultof the dilation device.

[0042] The device of the invention is suited to any size nostril, iseconomic, reusable and aesthetically pleasing.

[0043] Also the invention provides a variable geometry nasal dilationdevice for maintaining a nasal cavity in an open condition, the deviceincluding

[0044] a resiliently expandible housing structure which allows flow ofair/fluid therethrough, the housing structure having an opposing firstand second end and at least one wall interconnecting the ends;

[0045] the housing structure being sized relative to the cavity to beinsertable and removable within the cavity;

[0046] an expansion means operable on the housing structure to urge oneof the first or second ends towards its opposite end in an operatingcondition to alter the geometry of the structure;

[0047] a locking means for releasably locking the compressing means in aposition to maintain the housing structure in a desired alteredgeometry;

[0048] wherein as one end of the structure is urged towards its oppositeend under the operation of a compressive force, the wall progressivelyextends outwardly to exert an opening force on the cavity wall, thedevice being able to return to the first geometry by removal of thecompressing means to a non-operating condition.

[0049] In an alternative according to the present invention there isprovided a nasal dilation device for improving air flow through a nasalcavity including:

[0050] a first deformable body and a second deformable bodyinterconnected by a bridge, the first and second deformable bodies beingsubstantially symmetrical about a longitudinal axis extending centrallyof the bridge;

[0051] each of the first and a second deformable bodies having anuppermost end forming a collar and a lowermost end forming a waistbandgreater in diameter than the collar, the uppermost end and lowermostends being interconnected by a series of spaced ribs, each body furtherincluding a hollow cylindrical member mounted to the collar extendingalong a longitudinal axis of each body towards the lowermost end;

[0052] an adjustable member being a closing compression member for eachdeformable body having a foot on a central leg which is able to extendinto the hollow cylindrical member, the leg including a series of spacedapart circumferential protrusions of external diameter equal to orgreater than the internal diameter of the hollow cylindrical memberallowing the leg to enter the hollow cylinder so that the protrusionsengage the hollow cylinder and the foot engages the internal sides ofthe waistband or the ribs extending from the collar so that the ribs aredeflected outwardly of the body to dilate the cavity to a desired size.

[0053] The ribs can be extendable in a direction outwardly relative tothe body as the leg of the compression member progressively enters thehollow cylindrical member so that the extent of desired dilation of acavity can be controlled. In this way the degree of expansion of theribs can be controlled to dilate a cavity to a desired extend.

[0054] In a further alternative of the present invention there isprovided a nasal cavity dilation device for improving flow of airthrough a nasal cavity including:

[0055] an elongate U-shape body having an uppermost and lowermostportion, the lowermost portion being sufficiently wide to span a nasalseptum, the device including a pair of symmetrical wing members havingarcuate sections so that the pair of wings extend downwardly at an angleto the body;

[0056] the body including first and second oppositely disposed andlaterally extending resilient arm members and one of the first or secondarm members having a recess adjacent its end;

[0057] each wing member having a third arm member extending inwardlytowards the first and second arm members so that the third arm member isable to slot between the first and second arm members, the third armmember including a series of ridges separated by adjacent troughs whichtroughs resiliently and releasably engage the recess on the first orsecond arm member

[0058] the angle between the body and the wings being controlled andvariable by adjusting the engagement between the adjacent troughs andrecess to dilate a nasal cavity.

[0059] The wing members can include flattened sections which restagainst internal nasal cavity walls to improve a wearers level ofcomfort. The wings can be expanded or contracted either internally orexternally of the nasal cavity by urging the teeth against the recessuntil an adjacent trough engages the recess. The arm containing therecess is sufficiently resilient to enable teeth members to deflect thearm downwards as the teeth act against the recess.

[0060] In still a further alternative according to the present inventionthere is disclosed an adjustable pre-setting nasal cavity dilationdevice for insertion within a nasal cavity including a body having aflexible wall structure and an expansion means connected to the flexiblewall structure wherein when a force is applied to the expansion meansthe wall structure progressively expands to a desired settable conditionlaterally of the body to dilate the cavity and substantially improvepassage of air there through.

[0061] Yet in a further alternative provided by the present inventionthere is described an adjustable nasal cavity dilation device includinga deformable body having a first end and second end connected by aseries of spaced resilient ribs, an adjustment member being an expansionmeans connected to the body which expansion means can be acted upon byan applied force to displace one of the first or second ends towards theother, the ribs being deflected relative to the body to expand the nasalcavity; and a holding means which holds the body in a desired condition,the body being able to return to an unexpanded condition on release ofthe holding means. This enables substantial improvement of air-flowthrough a nasal cavity. The expansion means can be connected to the bodywhich expansion means can be acted upon by an external applied force todisplace one of the first and second ends towards the other to expandthe ribs outwardly relative to the body. Expansion of the device canoccur before or after insertion into a nasal cavity.

[0062] In yet a further embodiment of the invention there is disclosedan adjustable nasal dilation device including:

[0063] a first deformable body having one or more ribs able to engageopposing internal sides of a nasal cavity wall when in position; and

[0064] an adjustment member which expands the first deformable body toenlarge the nasal cavity.

[0065] The adjustment member can include two arm members interengagingfrom opposing sides of the first deformable body.

[0066] The Deformable Body can Include a Spine and a Rib or Wing Member.

[0067] The adjustable nasal cavity dilation device can include a seconddeformable body connected to the first deformable body by asubstantially U-shaped bridge to form an uppermost portion and alowermost portion, the lowermost portion being sufficiently wide to spana nasal septum; the uppermost portion ending in a rib member extendingdownwardly at an angle to the first and second deformable bodiesrespectively, the first and second deformable bodies being symmetricalabout a longitudinal axis extending centrally of the lowermost portion;

[0068] each of the rib members having mounted thereto a first arm memberextending inwardly, each arm member including a series of ridgesseparated by valleys;

[0069] the first and second deformable bodies each having mountedthereon a second resilient arm member extending oppositely the first armmember towards the rib members, which second resilient arm membersinclude a recess proximal to each end for engaging with a valley betweenadjacent spaced ridges on a first arm member so that the angle betweenthe rib members and the first and second deformable body is reversiblyadjusted by urging the ridges over the recess.

[0070] The first and second deformable bodies further can include athird arm member mounted thereon extending outwardly towards respectiverib members, each of the third arm members being disposed above thesecond opposing arm members, each of the third arm members having aprotrusion extending below the level of each arm, which protrusion actsas a guide to assist engagement between the first arm members and thesecond opposing arm members.

[0071] The rib members can include an enlarged surface area, which makescontact with nasal cavity walls. The first and second deformable bodiesincluding symmetrical enlarged portions, which are convergent to makecontact with internal surfaces of the nasal cavity.

[0072] In a further embodiment of the present invention there isdisclosed a nasal dilation device for improving air flow through a nasalcavity including:

[0073] a first deformable body and an adjustment member;

[0074] the first deformable body having an uppermost substantiallycircular open end forming a collar and a lowermost substantiallycircular open end forming a waistband; a series of spaced ribsconnecting between the uppermost and lowermost ends, the body includinga central member mounted on the collar and extending longitudinallywithin the body towards the lowermost end;

[0075] the adjustment member being a closing compression member having aholding base and a central leg mounted thereon, which leg is able toextend into the first deformable body with the holding base engaging thewaistband of the first deformable body; the leg of the holding base andthe central member of the first deformable body having complementaryengagement means allowing engagement which causes the holding base toact against the waistband in response to an external force so that theribs are deflected outwardly of the body to a desired size for dilatingthe nasal cavity.

[0076] The central member of the first deformable body can be hollow andthe leg of the holding base can include a series of spaced apartcircumferential protrusions of external diameter equal to or greaterthan the internal diameter of the hollow central member.

[0077] The ribs are generally extendable in a direction outwardlyrelative to the body as the leg of the compression member progressivelyenters the hollow member so that the extent of desired dilation of anasal cavity can be controlled. The holding base can include a centralplatform on which the leg is mounted and extends upwardly towards thecentral member. The holding base can further include a locking ringinterconnected to the platform by a series of radial arms, the lockingring including an annular shoulder that abuts the waistband when the legengages within the central member. The holding base can also include arecessed protrusion for receiving a vapor delivery system. The nasaldilation device can include a second deformable body interconnected tothe first deformable body by a bridge, the first and second deformablebodies being substantially symmetrical about a longitudinal axisextending centrally of the bridge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0078]FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a fully assembled device inaccordance with a first embodiment of the invention.

[0079]FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective illustration of the embodiment inFIG. 1.

[0080]FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective illustration of the device ofFIG. 1.

[0081]FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a fully assembled device inaccordance with a second embodiment of the invention.

[0082]FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective illustration of the embodiment inFIG. 4.

[0083]FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective illustration of the device ofFIG. 4.

[0084]FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a fully assembled device inaccordance with a third embodiment of the invention.

[0085]FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective illustration of the embodiment inFIG. 7.

[0086]FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective illustration of the device ofFIG. 7.

[0087]FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a fully assembled device inaccordance with a fourth embodiment of the invention.

[0088]FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective illustration of the embodiment inFIG. 10.

[0089]FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective illustration of the device ofFIG. 10.

[0090]FIG. 13 is a front diagrammatic view of a fully assembled devicein accordance with a fifth embodiment of the invention.

[0091]FIG. 14 is a front diagrammatic view of a fully assembled devicein accordance with a sixth embodiment of the invention.

[0092]FIG. 15 is a front diagrammatic view of a fully assembled devicein accordance with a seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0093]FIG. 16 is a front diagrammatic view of a fully assembled devicein accordance with a eighth embodiment of the invention.

[0094]FIGS. 17A, B, C, D, E, F, G&H are varying perspective views of adevice in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the invention with FIGS.17A, B, C, D, E, F, & G being in a first undilated form and FIG. 17Hbeing in a second dilated form.

[0095]FIGS. 18A & B, are varying perspective views of a device inaccordance with a tenth embodiment of the invention with FIG. 18A beingin a first undilated form and FIG. 18B being in a second dilated form.

[0096]FIGS. 19A, B & C, are varying perspective views of a device inaccordance with the invention in undilated form and dilated condition.

[0097]FIG. 20A is a device in accordance with the invention showing analternative holding and expanding mechanism.

[0098]FIGS. 21A, B & C illustrate a device according to the inventionwith a alternative holding mechanism.

[0099]FIGS. 22A B & C are varying perspective views of a device inaccordance with a tenth embodiment of the invention illustrating adevice in an open condition.

[0100]FIG. 23 is an end plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 inan open condition.

[0101]FIG. 24 are varying perspective views of a device, in accordancewith a tenth embodiment of the invention, in assembled condition.

[0102]FIGS. 25A & B are end views of the device shown in FIG. 24.

[0103]FIGS. 26A & B are magnified perspective views of locking meansexemplified in the tenth embodiment.

[0104]FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a further embodiment inaccordance with the present invention.

[0105]FIGS. 28a, b and c represent the embodiment referred to in FIG. 27in a front elevation, a plan view from beneath, and a plan view fromabove respectively.

[0106]FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of theinvention in partially assembled condition.

[0107]FIGS. 30a, b and c represents the embodiment referred to in FIG.29 by way of a front elevation, a plan view from above, and a plan viewfrom beneath respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT WITH REFERENCE TO THEDRAWINGS

[0108] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 there is shown a nasal dilationdevice (5) insertable within a body cavity such as the nose. The nasalcavity dilation device is for urging the cavity towards an opencondition. The device has a body (8) with a flexible wall structureformed by a plurality of longitudinally extending elongated ribs (32)extending between a top frame (31) and a bottom frame (33). The topframe (31) has an outer circular collar (35) with inner radial likestruts (36) providing flow through openings (37) and a shaped openingforming a mounting opening (38). The bottom frame (33) is a circularwaistband with a plurality of elongated spaced ribs (32) connected tothe collar (35) and the waist band (33). The ribs at least are made fromflexible plastics so that the wall structure has variable geometry. Thesizing of the device is such that it is insertable within the nasalcavity.

[0109] The nasal dilation device (5) further includes an expansion meanscomprising a connecting link (41) having a stop (42) larger in dimensionthan the smooth elongated chord (43) and able to be held in the mountingopening (38). The smooth elongated chord extending in position throughthe centre of the body (8). At or close to the top of the link (41)between the stop (42) and the smooth elongated chord (43) is a pluralityof protuberances (44). In this embodiment the protuberances are spacedsawtooth structure in profile. The plurality of protuberances (44)provide a plurality of locking positions when the smooth elongated chord(43) is pulled forcing the top frame (31) closer to the bottom frame(33) and thereby deflect the elongated ribs such that the geometry ofthe device is adjusted by application of a force on the expansion means(41) to cause the flexible wall structure to proceed from a firstsubstantially undilated geometry to adopt a second dilated geometry(best seen in FIGS. 17H and 18B).

[0110] A holding means in the form of a holding base (51) having abottom locking ring (52) and radial arm members (55) extending inwardlyfrom the locking ring in a frustoconical configuration to a centralplatform (54) having a central shaped locking opening (58). The holdingbase (51) is sized to close off the bottom opening (39) of the body (8)of the device (5) by the locking ring (52) engaging the waistband (33)of the body (8). The shaped locking opening (58) is able to receive aprotrusion (44) of the link (41) and thereby maintain the relativepositions of the top frame (31) and the bottom frame (33) and therebymaintain the flexible wall structure (32) in a selected second dilatedgeometry. In the second dilating geometry the device is sized andpositionable against and between the internal walls of the cavity andthe septum thereby opening the cavity to enable passage of air and/orfluid therethrough.

[0111] The device further includes a frustoconical filter (62) with acentral opening which is insertable in the central opening (53) of thelocking ring (52) of the holding base (51). The filter (62) is held inposition by a closing frame (64) similar in structure to the holdingbase (51) but having a central circular opening rather than a shapedlocking opening (58).

[0112] It can be seen therefore that due to the frame work structure ofthe device and in particular the frame work structure of the top frame(31) the holding base (51) and the closing frame (64) and due to theporosity of the filter (62) airflow is available into the nasal cavity.The variable geometry of the wall structure including the ribs (32) isimplemented by an expansion means engaging with the flexible wallstructure wherein the geometry of the device is adjustable byapplication of a force on the expansion means to cause the flexible wallstructure to proceed from a first substantially undilated geometry toadopt a second dilated geometry.

[0113] The filter (62) can be a material such as felt which can in turnbe used to deliver medicated vapour such as that derived from “vapourrub”™. Alternatively a filtration device can be inserted within theclosing frame to prevent inhalation of dust or pollens which canotherwise initiate allergic reaction by a wearer of the device.

[0114] FIGS. 4 to 9 show a nasal cavity device similar to the embodimentof FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 except that instead of having a body 8 that issubstantially cylindrical, the body is pyramidal from a circular base toa top point. Another difference is the shape of the protuberances 44 onthe link and thereby the change of shape of the shaped locking opening(58). However the operation is substantially identical.

[0115] In FIGS. 10 to 12 the link is formed by a screw means (300)extending through and being held by an opening in the top frame andengaging an elongated nut means (301) able to receive the screw and heldby an external flange in the bottom frame. By relative twisting of thescrew means and the elongated nut the top frame is brought towards thebottom frame and the flexible ribs can be deflected outwards to form alarger dilated second geometry of the required size for the nasal cavityof the user.

[0116] In FIGS. 13 to 16 the body structure is substantially sphericalwith the link (41) being formed of a sawtooth locking means in FIG. 13,a wire means in FIG. 14 that retains its position when the North andSouth poles of the body of the device are compressed towards each other.In FIG. 16 a plurality of circular protuberances (44) on the link areresistively engageable with an opening at the South pole of thespherical body shape.

[0117]FIGS. 17A, B, C, D, E, F, G&H are varying perspective views of adevice in accordance with a further embodiment similar to the initialembodiments. However they are shown in linked pairs for use in eachnostril of the user with each link being joined by a joining member(200). In this embodiment pf the invention FIGS. 17A, B, C, D, E, F, & Gshow the device in a first undilated form and FIG. 17H is in a seconddilated form. With particular reference to FIGS. 17C and D there isshown the waistband (33) of the device exhibiting an angledconfiguration. An advantage of the angled waistband is that some nosesexhibit a lower septum relative to the internal wall of an adjacentnostril cavity so that a corresponding angled end frame on the deviceallows the device to be less obtrusive.

[0118]FIG. 17C, in a perspective view, also shows an alternative holdingmeans and expansion means. In this embodiment the expansion meanscomprises a connecting link (41) that is anchored at one end to the topframe (31) and includes an elongate chord. The chord exhibits a seriesof spaced apart protuberances (82) along a substantial portion of itslength. The holding means comprises a resilient boss or clip (80)integral to and extending from an internal surface of the waistband(33), having an opening (81) to hold the chord. The clip is sufficientlysmall and resilient to enable a protuberance or even a neck portion (84)of the chord, spaced between adjacent protuberances, to enter to extendin to the opening and thereafter being held captive within the clip tomaintain the elongate ribs in a desired condition. Alternatively theopening in the clip is only large enough to accommodate a length ofchord between the protuberances, and once a length of chord is placedwithin the opening, a protuberance, being larger than the opening, restsbeneath the opening to prevent the chord from being inadvertentlydisplaced.

[0119] In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the waistband canincorporate an opening therein which serves as a holding means. In thisembodiment the chord is able to be wedged tightly within the opening inthe waistband and thus the chord needn't include any protuberances.

[0120]FIGS. 18A & B also show a before use and in use position. FIG. 18Arepresents a first undilated form showing a substantially cylindricalbody shape while FIG. 18B is in a second dilated form in a substantiallysperical shape.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 18B there is shown a fully assembled devicelocked in a compressed condition. During the operation of compression,the rib walls (32) move outwardly from the resting geometry of thedevice to describe an altered geometry akin to a continuousparabolic-shaped curve. In this altered geometry at least a part of thesurface area of a rib wall (32) makes contact with the internal surfaceof the cavity. The rib walls (32) are fabricated from resilientmaterials such as plastics, which enable them to exert and maintain anopening pressure on the internal surface of the cavity.

[0122] Referring to FIGS. 19A, B & C there is shown a device linked intandem for insertion within nasal cavities one device being joined tothe other by a link(93). As is shown the tandem device can include acircumferential ring (95) mountable within the opening defined by thewaistband. The ring can include a material such as a felt thereon forretaining a substance capable of delivering a vapour. Alternatively thecircumferential ring can include a filter (96) which can be of a desiredpore size to reduce inhalation of airborne particulate matter that canotherwise initiate an allergic reaction.

[0123]FIG. 20 shows a tandem device having an alternative expansion andholding mechanism. While the principal of operation is similar to thatillustrated in FIG. 12 the differences of note are that the elongatelink (41) is fixed to the top frame (31) and includes a series of spacedapart protuberances (92) along a substantial part of its length. Thelink is held in a desired position by a holding means in the form of aholding base (51) with a centrally located upstanding base (175)supported by base cross-members (176). The upstanding base has acentrally located bore (177) with internal mating threads extendingalong one side of the bore for mating with the protuberances (92) on thelink (41). In order to compress the adjustable ribs (32) an externalpressure is applied to either the top and/or bottom frame thereby tourge the protuberances within the bore and into mating engagement withthe portion of the bore that includes internal threads. To release thedevice from an expanded condition the bottom frame is rotated so thatthe protuberances disengage from the internal threads on the one side ofthe bore and thereafter the protuberances can freely slide to releasethe link from the bore. The devices are linked together by a nose bridge(103) which includes a recess for housing a vapour dispenser (104).

[0124] Referring to FIGS. 21A, B, and C there is shown a modification toFIG. 20 wherein one part of the holding means is a clip (277) positionedon an internal surface of the waistband (33) for receiving acorresponding protuberance (44) on the link (41). FIG. 21B shows thedevice in a compressed/expanded condition and a non-expanded condition.In both instances the chord is held in a position by locking aprotuberance within the clip.

[0125] As shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 the device has a resting-geometry inthe absence of compression, for enabling easy insertion within a bodycavity, although it is understood that the device can be dilated priorto insertion within a nasal cavity. The resting geometry of thestructure (4) exhibits a bullet or dome type shape wherein the collar(6) exhibits a smaller relative circumference to the opposite waistbandend (7) to facilitate easy insertion of the device within a cavity. Inthe resting geometry the device (5) is sufficiently small to enableinsertion within a very wide range of cavity sizes and thereafter thegeometry changes under a force exerted on the top end of the structureby the chord to urge a surface of the ribs against the nasal cavity toimprove breathing and air flow within the cavity.

[0126] The applicant does not intend to limit the invention to thedisclosed embodiments, and any modifications or alterations that areobvious to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure are withinthe scope of this invention and covered herein.

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 22A, B and C there is shown a device (500)according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention for insertionwithin a nasal cavity. The device (500) is a unitary device, which canbe manufactured in an single step injection moulding process. The deviceincludes a bridge (501) and two upstanding support members (502)extending substantially at right angles to the bridge and exhibitingsymmetry about an axis defined by point A-A to form a rigid bodystructure. The upstanding support members (502) end in shoulders (503).The shoulders (503) generally exhibit an inverted U-shape structureextending from the body distal to the bridge, terminating in an enlargedend (504) which surface area rests flat against internal walls of anasal cavity without causing discomforture of a user. The shoulders(503) include a first and second curved segments (505) and (506)respectively, separated by a living hinge (507) to enable the secondsegment (506) of the shoulder to pivot relative to the first segment(505).

[0128] The device (500) further includes a radial arm member (508)attached to and extending from the upstanding support members (502) atan acute angle by a living hinge. The arms (508) are able to move in avertical plane in alignment with the upstanding support member(s), todescribe an arcuate pathway. The arms (508) are biased laterally so thatthe arm, if moved away from the vertical plane defined by the upstandingsupport member, will be urged back towards its original position.

[0129] The arm member(s) (508) end in a cirumferential ring (509) havingoppositely facing surfaces (513 and 522) surrounding an opening (512).On one surface (513) of the ring (509) there is a series of teeth (510)being interlockable with corresponding mating teeth on a second armmember (511). The second arm member (511) extends from a surfaceadjacent the enlarged surface area (504) and is angled oppositely to thefirst arm member (508). The second arm member is joined at a surfacenear the enlarged surface area (504) by a living hinge which enables thesecond arm to pivot up and down in a substantially vertical plane. Thesecond arm (511) ends in a protuberance (514) which includes an innercylindrical core (515) with an outer core (516) encircling at least apart of the external wall of the inner core. The outer core has a firstand second opposing face (517, 518) having teeth moulded onto the firstface (517) for engagement with corresponding teeth (510) on the armmember (508).

[0130] The second arm (511) also includes a flange element (519)extending upwardly from the inner core (515). The flange (519)incorporates a neck (520) which passes through opening (512) in thecircular protuberance (509) in an engaged condition, ending in ashoulder (521) that engages a surface (522) of the circumferentical ring(509).

[0131] In an operating condition the device (500) requires arm member(s)(508) and (511) to be forced apart laterally against the natural bias soas to allow engagement of mating teeth on respective surfaces ofcirucmferential ring (509) and protuberance (514). Prior to engagementof mating teeth the flange element (519) is passed through the opening(512) until the shoulder (521) of the flange rests against surface (522)of the circumferential ring. Once in an engaged condition the device(500) can be inserted within a users nasal cavity so that the bridge(501) spans the septum of a nose and the upstanding support members(502) bear against internal cavity walls. Once in an inserted conditiona force can be applied against the engaged circumferential portions ofthe arms thereby to cause hinged movement of the arms relative to thesupport members. As the arms are displaced the interlocking teeth areurged over each other to allow corresponding outward displacement of theshoulder (506) about hinge (507). In this condition the enlarged area(504) of the arm exerts an opening pressure on the nasal wall to expandthe nasal cavity.

[0132] In this embodiment the device can be retained in the nasal cavityin a suitably expanded state without inadvertent removal. The arms canbe maintained in a relative position by the mating locking teeth. Theshoulder portion (506) can be hingedly displaced outwardly by exerting aforce against the interlocked ring (502) and protuberance (514) so as toenable the enlarged end to exert a desired pressure against the nasalwall. As a force is applied to the locked members the mating teethdisengage to enable hinged movement of the arms. When the nostril cavityis expanded sufficiently the teeth can be interlocked to retain the armsin the new/expanded condition. When the arms (508) and (511) arehingedly displaced in relation to the applied force, the shoulderportion (506) is correspondingly displaced outwardly about the livinghinge (507) to enable the enlarged surface area (504) of the shoulder toexert a positive pressure against the internal walls of a nasal cavity.

[0133] In this embodiment the device can be adjusted manually insitu toopen the nasal cavity. The upstanding support members of the devicebrace against one side of a nasal cavity while the shoulder portion(506) is pivotable about hinge (507) in concert with hinged movement ofarm members (508) and (511) on application of an external force. Thebridge (501) prevents the device from being inadvertently inhaled by auser and acts as a rigid support for bracing a surface of the nasalcavity wall. When the device adopts an expanded condition the enlargedend and the upright member(s) brace against the walls of the cavity andeffectively prevent inadvertent removal of the device from the cavity.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 27 there is shown a modification of the deviceillustrated in FIGS. 22A, B and C. The modified nasal dilation device(5000) is preferably moulded from a plastics material in a single stepprocess and includes a first (5001) and second deformable body (5002)connected by a U-shaped bridge member (5003). Each of the first andsecond deformable bodies includes a spine (5004) ending in outwardlyextending ribs or wings (5005) inclined at an angle to the spine. Thebodies each have a set of adjustment members to deflect the ribsrelative to the spine consisting of:

[0135] a first arm member (5006) mounted on the spine, which extendsoutwardly towards the rib (5005) and includes a recess (5007) proximalto the end of the arm. Each of the ribs (5005) includes an inwardlyextending arm (5008), each of the arms (5008) include a series of ridgesor teeth (5009) separated by adjacent troughs (5010) for interrengagingwith the recess (5007) on the first arm member (5006). The first armmembers (5006) are generally biased so that when a ridge (5009) ispassed over the recess (5007) by means of an applied force the first armmember is deflected downwardly towards the bridge until the first armmember resumes its biased position by engagement with an adjacenttrough.

[0136] As different troughs are engaged within the recess the anglebetween the ribs and the spine varies. As is shown in FIG. 28a the firstand second deformable bodies exhibit an expanded condition for nasalcavity dilation. Reversing the direction of an applied force can enablethe deformable bodies to retract.

[0137] The modified device (5000) is symmetrical about axis A-A, bestseen in FIG. 28a, hence for convenience an explanation is provided forone half of the device which will in turn apply for the equivalentopposite symmetrical feature.

[0138] The uppermost part (5011) of the generally U-shaped spine ends ina rib or wing member (5005) extending outwardly at an angle to the spine(5004) and being connected thereto by a curved section (5012). The ribor wing member (5005) includes a flattened section (5013), which in anoperating condition rests against internal wall surfaces of a nasalcavity. The flattening and broadening of the wing section serves toincrease the surface area in contact with internal cavity walls tospread the concentration of force exerted by the device over a widersurface as practicable.

[0139] In a further embodiment the adjusting means (5014) includes afirst arm member (5006) and a second arm member (5015) both mounted tothe spine and extending outwardly from the spine and being spaced apartone above the other. The second arm member (5015) includes a pair ofoppositely disposed downwardly extending flanges (5016) being spacedapart to both receive and assist alignment of the arm member (5008)therebetween. The first arm member (5006) includes a u-shaped recess(5007) adjacent its end for receiving troughs (5010). When troughs(5010) are engaged within the recess (5007), adjacent ridges or teeth(5009) rest on either side of the recess (5007) to maintain the rib orwing member (5005) in a locked position so that the angle between theribs and spine (5004) is kept constant to maintain a desired cavitydilation.

[0140] The arm members (5006 and 5015) are resiliently mounted on thespine (5004) so that, when an external force is applied to the rib orwing members (5005) in the direction indicated by arrows (x or y), teethmembers (5009) cause downward deflection of the first arm (5006) as atooth acts on a surface of the recess until an adjacent trough (5010) isengaged within the recess (5007). In this way adjustment of the anglebetween the wing member and the spine can occur to arrive at an expandedor retracted position for dilation of the nasal cavity or to assistremoval of the device from the cavity. For example, referring to FIG.28a, if it is desired to reduce the angle between the wing member andthe spine, a user/wearer is able to attend to adjustment by applying anexternal force against flattened sections (5013) of the wing member inthe direction of (X). Similarly applying an external force in thedirection of ‘Y’ can derive an expanded condition for dilating a nasalcavity.

[0141] In an insertion condition a trough closest to the wing member isengaged within the recess (5007) so that the angle between the wing andthe spine of the body is reduced. This enables easy insertion. Onceinserted in a nasal cavity a user can apply an outwardly directed forcein situ on a lower inner surface of the wing member in the direction of‘Y’. Once the wing member is expanded sufficiently to promote increasedairflow, the angle between the wing and the body is maintained by firmengagement between a trough and the recess adjacent the first armmember.

[0142] In use the lowermost portion or bridge (5003) of the device isseated outside the nasal septum and the spine includes flattenedportions (5017), which abuts internal wall structure of a nasal cavity.Generally at least the lower most portion (5018) of the device istransparent or flesh coloured so as to render the device inconspicuousfrom a casual observer.

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 29 and 30a, b and c there is shown amodification of the cage dilation system embodied in FIG. 20. The cagedilation system (6000) includes a first (6001) and second (6002)deformable bodies connected by a bridge (6003) and an adjustment means(6004). Each of the first and second deformable bodies includes anuppermost substantially circular open end forming a collar (6005) and alowermost substantially circular open end forming a waistband (6006). Aseries of spaced apart ribs (6007) connect the uppermost and lowermostends and the each body has a central hollow cylindrical member (6008)mounted on the collar, which extends within the body towards thelowermost end. For ease of explanation only one body will be described,the remaining body having identical features. The adjustment means(6004) in this embodiment is a closing compression member, which isadapted to engage with the body. The compression member includes aholding base or a foot (6009) and a central leg (6010) mounted thereon,which leg is able to extend into the deformable body with the holdingbase engaging the waistband of the deformable body.

[0144] The compression means comprises a leg or shaft (6010) extendingupwardly and centrally from the foot or holding base (6009). The holdingbase includes a locking ring (6011), which has an annular shoulder(2012) that abuts the rim (6013) of the waistband when the shaft (6010)is engaged within the hollow cylinder (6008).

[0145] The holding base has a central platform (6014) from which theshaft (6010) extends upwardly to be received within the hollow cylinder(6008). The holding base also includes integral radial arm members(6015) connecting the central platform to the locking ring member. Thecentral platform includes a protrusion (6016) extending beneath thelevel of the locking ring. The protrusion has a recess (6017) (best seenin FIG. 30a) in or about which a vapour delivery system can be housed(not shown).

[0146] The shaft (6010) has a series of spaced protrusions (6018) alongits length which positively engage the internal surface of the hollowcylinder in an operating condition. It is generally understood that theinternal diameter of the hollow cylinder is less than the externaldiameter of the protrusions so as to enable the protrusions to bothdeflect and positively engage the hollow cylinder as it moves throughthe cylinder.

[0147] The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 29 to 30 a, b and c shows thetwo deformable bodies interconnected by a U-shaped bridge (6003). Thetwo deformable bodies exhibit symmetry about vertical axis XX′, hencefor convenience where reference is made to one body an identicalcomponent is present on the second body part. The series of spaced ribs(6007) deflect outwardly from the body describing an arcurate pathway(not shown) when the closing compression member exerts a force againstthe waistband causing the waistband to be displaced towards theuppermost end.

[0148] In an operating condition (seen in FIG. 30a) the shaft (6010) isdisplaced through the opening of the hollow cylinder by applying anexternal force between the locking ring on the compression means and thecollar. Generally in this embodiment the cage system is fabricated froma resilient plastic material so that when the shaft enters the openingin the hollow cylinder the protrusions (6018) act against the internalsurfaces of the hollow cylinder, thereby deflecting the internalsurfaces to enable displacement and enabling positive engagementtherewith. As the shaft is displaced along the hollow cylinder the ribsdeflect outwardly to describe an arcurate pathway. In use the ribs restagainst internal wall surfaces of a users nasal cavity. When applying acompressive force between the collar and the waistband causingdeflection of the ribs, the walls of the nasal cavity against which theribs are at rest, extend in response to the outward deflection of theribs to promote flow of air through the cavity.

1. An adjustable nasal dilation device including: a first deformablebody having one or more ribs able to engage opposing internal sides of anasal cavity wall when in position; and an adjustment member whichexpands the first deformable body to enlarge the nasal cavity.
 2. Anadjustable nasal dilation device according to claim 1 with theadjustment member comprising two arm members interengaging from opposingsides of the first deformable body.
 3. An adjustable nasal cavitydilation device according to claim 1 including: a second deformable bodyconnected to the first deformable body by a substantially U-shapedbridge to form an uppermost portion and a lowermost portion, thelowermost portion being sufficiently wide to span a nasal septum; theuppermost portion ending in a rib member extending downwardly at anangle to the first and second deformable bodies respectively, the firstand second deformable bodies being symmetrical about a longitudinal axisextending centrally of the lowermost portion; each of the rib membershaving mounted thereto a first arm member extending inwardly, each armmember including a series of ridges separated by valleys; the first andsecond deformable bodies each having mounted thereon a second resilientarm member extending oppositely the first arm member towards the ribmembers, which second resilient arm members include a recess proximal toeach end for engaging with a valley between adjacent spaced ridges on afirst arm member so that the angle between the rib members and the firstand second deformable body is reversibly adjusted by urging the ridgesover the recess.
 4. An adjustable nasal cavity dilation device accordingto claim 3 in which each of the first and second deformable bodiesfurther include a third arm member mounted thereon extending outwardlytowards respective rib members, each of the third arm members beingdisposed above the second opposing arm members, each of the third armmembers having a protrusion extending below the level of each arm, whichprotrusion acts as a guide to assist engagement between the first armmembers and the second opposing arm members. An adjustable nasal cavitydilation device according to claim 1 in which the rib members include anenlarged surface area which makes contact with nasal cavity walls. Anadjustable nasal cavity dilation device according to claim 3 with thefirst and second deformable bodies including symmetrical enlargedportions which are convergent to make contact with internal surfaces ofthe nasal cavity.
 5. A nasal dilation device for improving air flowthrough a nasal cavity including: a first deformable body and anadjustment member; the first deformable body having an uppermostsubstantially circular open end forming a collar and a lowermostsubstantially circular open end forming a waistband; a series of spacedribs connecting between the uppermost and lowermost ends, the bodyincluding a central member mounted on the collar and extendinglongitudinally within the body towards the lowermost end; the adjustmentmember being a closing compression member having a holding base and acentral leg mounted thereon, which leg is able to extend into the firstdeformable body with the holding base engaging the waistband of thefirst deformable body; the leg of the holding base and the centralmember of the first deformable body having complementary engagementmeans allowing engagement which causes the holding base to act againstthe waistband in response to an external force so that the ribs aredeflected outwardly of the body to a desired size for dilating the nasalcavity.
 8. The nasal dilation device according to claim 7 in which thecentral member of the first deformable body is hollow and the leg of theholding base includes a series of spaced apart circumferentialprotrusions of external diameter equal to or greater than the internaldiameter of the hollow central member.
 9. The nasal dilation deviceaccording to claim 7 with the ribs being extendable in a directionoutwardly relative to the body as the leg of the compression memberprogressively enters the hollow member so that the extent of desireddilation of a nasal cavity can be controlled.
 10. The nasal dilationdevice of claim 7 in which the holding base includes a central platformon which the leg is mounted and extends upwardly towards the centralmember.
 11. The nasal dilation device of claim 10 in which the holdingbase includes a locking ring interconnected to the platform by a seriesof radial arms, the locking ring including an annular shoulder thatabuts the waistband when the leg engages within the central member. 12.The nasal dilation device of claim 7 in which the holding base includesa recessed protrusion for receiving a vapor delivery system.
 13. Thenasal dilation device of claim 7 including a second deformable bodyinterconnected to the first deformable body by a bridge, the first andsecond deformable bodies being substantially symmetrical about alongitudinal axis extending centrally of the bridge.
 14. An adjustablenasal cavity dilation device including a deformable body having a firstend and second end connected by a series of spaced apart ribs, anadjustment member being an expansion means connected to the body whichexpansion means can be acted upon by an applied force to displace one ofthe first or second ends towards the other, the ribs being deflectedrelative to the body to expand the nasal cavity; and a holding meanswhich holds the body in a desired condition, the body being able toreturn to an unexpanded condition on release of the holding means. 15.An adjustable nasal cavity dilation device according to claim 14 inwhich the holding means includes a draw-pull element that passes throughboth ends of the body and exerts an applied force on one end to urgemovement of the one end, in the direction of force, towards its oppositeend.
 16. An adjustable nasal cavity dilation device according to claim14 wherein the first and opposite ends of the device are substantiallycircular in cross-section having circular openings therein in which oneof the circular ends has a smaller circumferential opening than itsopposite end.
 17. A nasal dilation device for improving air flow througha nasal cavity including: a first deformable body and a seconddeformable body interconnected by a bridge, the first and seconddeformable bodies being substantially symmetrical about a longitudinalaxis extending centrally of the bridge; each of the first and secondbodies having an uppermost end forming a collar and a lowermost endforming a waistband greater in diameter than the collar, the uppermostend and lowermost ends being interconnected by a series of spaced ribs,each body further including a hollow cylindrical member mounted to thecollar extending along a longitudinal axis of each body towards thelowermost end; an adjustable member being a closing compression memberfor each deformable body having a foot on a central leg which is able toextend into the hollow cylindrical member, the leg including a series ofspaced apart circumferential protrusions of external diameter equal toor greater than the internal diameter of the hollow cylindrical memberallowing the leg to enter the hollow cylinder so that the protrusionsengage the hollow cylinder and the foot engages the internal sides ofthe waistband or the ribs extending from the collar so that the ribs aredeflected outwardly of the body to dilate the cavity to a desired size.18. A nasal cavity dilation device for improving flow of air through anasal cavity including: an elongate U-shape body having an uppermost andlowermost portion, the lowermost portion being sufficiently wide to spana nasal septum, the device including a pair of symmetrical wing membershaving arcuate sections so that the pair of wings extend downwardly atan angle to the body; the body including first and second oppositelydisposed and laterally extending resilient arm members and one of thefirst or second arm members having a recess adjacent its end; each wingmember having a third arm member extending inwardly towards the firstand second arm members so that the third arm member is able to slotbetween the first and second arm members, the third arm member includinga series of teeth separated by adjacent troughs which resiliently andreleasably engage within the recess on the first or second arm memberthe angle of the wings being controlled and variable relative to thebody by adjusting the engagement between the adjacent troughs and recessto dilate a nasal cavity.